Thursday, March 9, 2017

Goodbye, Sweet Prince

We hadn't had a dog for a while and didn't know we needed one until we met Barley. And he needed us. He came into our lives just under eight years ago on what would have been the last day of his life. How could we have imagined the joy he would bring us?

Barley was four years old when he arrived at our house, and his first four years hadn't been easy. We loved him from the moment we set eyes on him. It didn't take long to become accustomed to the comfort of his companionship. Looking out for him became as natural as breathing. You notice such things when they are gone.

Walking toward the house today, I glanced back for Barley. It was a momentary lapse, then reality hit like a blow. Barley died at home Tuesday morning, most likely from an embolism. It happened quickly and it was a mercy that he didn't suffer long.

As words are still hard to come by, I'm adding some pictures as a tribute to the dog whose paw prints are written forever on our hearts.

20 comments:

I remember all those lovely photographs of your wonderful and beautiful Barley and was so sad to hear that he had died. You will indeed remember this wonderful companion forever in your hearts. He also captured the hearts of your readers here. Each one of these pictures is a touching tribute to this beautiful and loving dog.

Oh, Connie (and Don), when I saw the heading of your post, my heart just sank. I knew. What a beautiful, blessed dog he was, and what a blessing to you both he was! Yes, I believe our Father blesses us with four-legged friends. Those of us who "knew" Barley feel a sense a loss now, but how we've enjoyed seeing him in his beautiful home and backyard. That last photo is ... exquisite.

I can't imagine your beautiful woodland trails without Barley running through them. I know your walks will bring him to you over and over in your minds eye.He was such a gentleman when Abby and I visited and a perfect host to her. I will not forget him and the times we spent in you home.

Hello Connie, lovely tribute to your sweet Barley! I am so sorry for your loss, our pets are part of the family. I know you have many happy memories of Barley. RIP Barley!Thank you for linking up and sharing your post. Happy Saturday, enjoy your weekend!

My very sincere condolences. Had it not been for my animals, I'm not sure I would have made it this far. As I type this, Gypsy Rose Lee, a long hair tabby cat purrs in my lap. When bed claims me later, Sam and Sadie will sleep next to me. A life without animals cannot be contemplated.

Connie and Don, Bob and I are very sorry for your loss. We had the good fortune to meet Barley at your house as you've been so welcoming to us over the past year since we bought our cabin. In the brief time we met him, you could tell he was a gentle soul.

For me, life is fairly simple: love God, love your neighbor, do your art. As a Christian, my first priority is loving God,

and I believe a part of loving Him is being grateful for what He’s given us. Here in the Ozarks, we have much to appreciate and enjoy. And so this blog attempts to do a little of this: appreciate God’s wonders, and share them with you, my neighbors.

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About Me

Connie is an illustrator and photographer who lives in the Missouri Ozarks, USA. She and her husband Don love their life together in their country home in the Ozarks, where artistic and photographic opportunities are ample, and their dog is way above average. Connie's portfolio can be viewed online at conniesmiley.com.